U.S. Department of Energy Releases $10 Million to Support Research on Used Nuclear Fuel Recycling Technologies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced a $10 million funding opportunity to support research and development activities to advance used nuclear fuel recycling technologies. The funding will encourage innovation and competitiveness of domestic used nuclear fuel recycling processes in the United States. 

The United States does not currently encourage commercial recycling of used nuclear fuel. However, it conducts research and development on the nuclear fuel cycle to assess options as technologies and economics evolve.  

“Recycling the nation’s used nuclear fuel offers untapped potential,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy Dr. Michael Goff. “Resolving the technical and economic challenges of recycling in a manner that meets our nonproliferation goals has the potential to increase significantly the sustainability of nuclear energy, create more jobs, and enhance our energy security.”

Current U.S. nuclear reactors use less than five percent of the energy potential of uranium and only run the fuel once through. Recycling used nuclear fuel could increase resource utilization by 95 percent, reduce waste by up to 90 percent, and drastically reduce the amount of uranium needed to operate nuclear reactors.  

Through this funding opportunity, DOE will continue to support early-stage research and development on used nuclear fuel recycling technologies that support long-term sustainability of nuclear waste management. 

DOE seeks applications that support a broad range of research and development activities that can lead to advancements in the innovation and competitiveness of domestic used nuclear fuel recycling processes. 

Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent by January 21, 2025. 

Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. ET on February 19, 2025. 

DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy supports research and development activities to evaluate options for recycling valuable components of used nuclear fuel to achieve a cost-effective circular economy and reduce the volume of high-level nuclear waste that needs to be dispositioned.